Long Security Lines Persist at Baltimore Airport Amid TSA Staffing Shortages

ICE agents remain on site as travelers advised to arrive 3 hours early

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly stylized, geometric illustration depicting the towering, streamlined architecture of a large airport terminal, with bold gradients of color and a sense of imposing scale, conceptually representing the persistent issues with airport security.The monumental scale and architectural grandeur of a major airport terminal reflects the ongoing challenges of security screenings and staffing shortages.Baltimore Today

Travelers at Baltimore/Washington International Airport were advised to arrive 3 hours early on Sunday afternoon as persistent long security lines were driven in part by staffing shortages among Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers. The airport also continued to have a presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on site.

Why it matters

The staffing shortages at TSA have been an ongoing issue at many major U.S. airports, leading to frustratingly long wait times for passengers. The continued presence of ICE agents at the airport also raises concerns about racial profiling and the impact on travelers, especially those from immigrant communities.

The details

Despite the airport's advice to arrive 3 hours early, travelers still faced lengthy security lines on Sunday afternoon due to the TSA staffing shortages. The airport has struggled with these issues for months, as the TSA has had difficulty recruiting and retaining officers. In addition, the presence of ICE agents at the airport has added to the tensions and concerns of some travelers.

  • On Sunday afternoon, BWI Marshall Airport advised travelers to arrive 3 hours early.

The players

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The federal agency responsible for security screenings at U.S. airports, which has faced staffing shortages leading to long lines.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that has maintained a presence at BWI Marshall Airport, raising concerns about racial profiling and the impact on travelers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The ongoing staffing challenges at TSA and the continued presence of ICE agents at BWI Marshall Airport highlight the need for comprehensive solutions to improve the airport security experience for all travelers, while also addressing concerns about civil liberties and equitable treatment.